New Ferry to Enter Service but CalMac Vessel Shortage Still Critical

CalMac’s initial new ship from Turkey is set to begin operations soon, yet the ferry company reports that demand on its west coast routes is still at a high level. The MV Isle of Islay, originally scheduled to launch its first journey from Islay on Friday, faced a delay due to technical issues and minor setbacks. These problems have since been resolved, offering some relief to the state-owned operator, which has been forced to reduce services since last week amid an “unprecedented” fleet shortage.

Five of CalMac’s eleven main vessels are currently out of commission, alongside the chartered catamaran Alfred and two smaller ferries, due to mechanical faults or scheduled upkeep. The 85-meter-long vessel, capable of carrying 450 passengers and 100 cars or 14 HGVs, will join MV Finlaggan in serving Islay. Once fully operational, this addition is expected to boost the route’s capacity by 40%.

“Islanders will have spotted her out on trials over the past few weeks, but this will be the first time they will get to travel on board. The difference the vessel will make to available capacity – 40% – will be extremely welcome on this popular and busy route, both for customers and for freight passengers,” said CalMac chief executive Duncan Mackison.

Ordered four years ago from Turkey’s Cemre shipyard, MV Isle of Islay was initially due for delivery in late 2024. Delays, attributed to factors including the war in Ukraine and a Turkish earthquake, pushed back its timeline. While the new ships are smaller than CalMac’s previous dual-fuel vessel, the Glen Sannox, they utilize a conventional diesel-electric system with some battery power for maneuvering.

The design of the new fleet includes a deeper draught than most existing CalMac ships, enabling a more streamlined and fuel-efficient structure. This change required dredging and other modifications at certain harbors. Notably, these vessels are the first large ships in CalMac’s history to feature Voith Schneider propulsor units—vertical spinning blades attached to a drum—which eliminate the need for traditional rudder systems. Such technology, already in use on smaller ferries, enhances maneuverability.

Meanwhile, CalMac continues to manage its west coast network with adjustments. MV Isle of Mull is now operating on Coll, Tiree, and Colonsay, while MV Clansman provides services from Uig on Skye to North and South Uist and Barra. Passengers from Harris are being directed to travel via Stornoway to Ullapool where possible. Four vessels are under annual maintenance, and four others face technical problems.